Nestle assures shareholders profitability at 55th AGM

At the 55th Annual General Meeting of Nestle Nigeria in Lagos on Wednesday, shareholders of the company were assured that the management and board would work assiduously to return the company to profitability.

The Chairman of the company, Mr Gbenga Oyebode, while addressing shareholders, allayed fears noting that the company in its 63 years of operation in Nigeria, having witnessed different macroeconomic dynamics, remained strong.

“We have come through a year that was challenging yet dynamic for the business, recording increased growth amidst uncertainty. In 2023, we found opportunities for expansion and innovation to increase impact at scale.

“We ensured the availability and accessibility of the nutritious food and beverages families across Nigeria choose daily through responsible local sourcing and production. We also supported our stakeholders, collaborating on initiatives and programs to help build thriving, resilient communities and implemented measures to protect and replenish the planet for future generations,” Oyebode said in his statement.

Speaking on the financial results, the Chairman noted that despite the difficult conditions during the year, Nestlé’s revenue increased by N100 billion to N547.1 billion, a 22.4 percent growth over 2022. Our gross profit increased by 39.4 percent to N217.1 billion while operating profit increased by 41.5 percent to N122.7 billion.

“Our profit after tax of N79.5 billion was negatively impacted by the revaluation of our foreign currency obligations due to the devaluation of the Naira,” he said.

He noted that the resultant negative equity position is being reviewed by the Board while adding that the board members are proactively monitoring the developments in monetary policy.
Looking ahead, Oyebode remained optimistic saying “As we progress through 2024, we maintain a sense of hope for a turnaround in our business environment. Our strategic focus continues to be on fostering innovation to deliver affordable nutrition to our loyal consumers, achieving operational excellence, and nurturing strong relationships with our valued customers and stakeholders.”

He noted that the company would sustain its investments in operations, enhance the capacity of its teams implement initiatives that address social and environmental problems, promote nutrition, and support local communities to create shared value.

Shareholders expressed their optimism, hoping that the board would declare dividend the following year while appreciating the resilient efforts of the board and management of the company towards driving the company back to profitability.

Speaking on behalf of shareholders, the patron, Nigeria Shareholders Solidarity Association (NSSA), Timothy Adesiyan, commended the 2023 financial result while applauding the management for the increase in revenue and operative activities.

The Chairman Emeritus of the Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria (ISAN), Sir Sunny Nwosu, however, urged the company to reduce exposure to foreign exchange, noting that backward integration should be enhanced.